Sexual Assault Lawyer Westchester County, NY

You were hosting a small gathering at your home in White Plains when a guest made an accusation that changed everything. Now detectives want to speak with you, and the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office is involved. A sexual assault investigation—whether it leads to a felony charge or not—can upend your career, your family, and your standing in the community before you ever walk into a courtroom. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its criminal defense practice on representing individuals facing exactly this type of high-stakes allegation. If you need an experienced sexual assault lawyer in Westchester County, NY, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Approach Sexual Assault Allegations

Every sexual assault case in Westchester County demands immediate, methodical preparation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by scrutinizing the government’s evidence: the accuser’s statements, any forensic reports, and the circumstances of the alleged incident. The timeline matters. In many cases, the credibility of the complaining witness is central, and a defense that tests that credibility through cross-examination, alibi, or conflicting evidence can make a decisive difference. Our role is not to promise a particular outcome but to ensure the prosecution’s case is exposed to rigorous challenge at every stage—from the initial investigation through potential grand jury proceedings and trial at the Westchester County Supreme Court Criminal Term.

Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, brings an insider’s understanding of how the District Attorney’s Office builds a sexual assault case. His Of Counsel attorneys contribute additional litigation experience, and together they work toward a thorough, well-prepared defense. We explore every lawful avenue: motion practice to suppress evidence obtained in violation of your rights, negotiation with the assigned assistant district attorney where appropriate, and preparation for trial if that becomes the necessary course. Because sexual assault charges often involve complex forensic science—DNA, digital evidence, or toxicology—we consult with independent attorneys to evaluate the prosecution’s scientific claims.

What to Expect When a Sexual Assault Case Moves Through Westchester County Courts

If a felony complaint is filed, your case will likely proceed to the Westchester County Supreme Court Criminal Term, located at 111 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd in White Plains. The process begins with an arraignment, where bail is addressed. Under New York’s 2020 bail reform, cash bail is eliminated for many non-violent felonies, but certain violent felony charges—including many sexual assault offenses—remain eligible for bail. The court may impose conditions of release or set monetary bail after considering the alleged facts. Our attorneys appear at arraignment prepared to argue for release on favorable terms.

After arraignment, the case moves toward a preliminary hearing or grand jury presentation. Many sexual assault cases in Westchester County are presented to a grand jury, which decides whether to indict. This stage moves quickly, and having experienced counsel before an indictment is critical. If indicted, the case enters the discovery phase, where the prosecution must disclose evidence under New York’s Criminal Procedure Law. Motion practice and negotiations follow, and if no resolution is reached, the case is listed for trial. The timeline varies by the complexity of the allegations, the volume of discovery, and the court’s calendar. Throughout this process, we keep you informed and involved in strategic decisions.

Understanding the Penalties for a Sexual Assault Conviction in New York

New York classifies sexual assault offenses under a range of felony categories, with penalties that escalate based on the nature of the alleged conduct and the age of the complaining witness. A conviction for a Class B violent felony—such as first-degree rape—carries a sentence of 5 to 25 years in state prison. Other sexual assault charges fall under Class D or E felonies, which can result in 2 to 7 years or 1 to 4 years of incarceration, respectively. Probation may be available for certain lower-level felony offenses. Beyond incarceration, a conviction requires registration under the New York Sex Offender Registration Act, often for decades or for life, with all the associated residency, employment, and community-notification consequences.

In addition to criminal penalties, a sexual assault conviction can trigger collateral consequences: immigration removal proceedings for non-citizens, loss of professional licenses, and irreversible damage to your reputation. The stakes are simply too high to proceed without experienced defense counsel. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with these collateral risks and work to identify strategies that may minimize long-term consequences even when a conviction cannot be avoided.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. A former prosecutor, he understands how sexual assault investigations are built and how to challenge them. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), an experience that reflects his familiarity with the legislative process and how the law can affect a client’s liberty. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does New York have cash bail for sexual assault charges?

Yes, New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies, but many sexual assault offenses remain bail-eligible because they are classified as violent felonies. In Westchester County, the court will consider whether to set bail at arraignment based on the specific charges and the defendant’s ties to the community. Our attorneys can argue for release on recognizance or for conditions short of monetary bail. Even when bail is set, we may seek a bail review hearing to reduce or modify the amount.

What is an ACD, and can it apply to a sexual assault charge?

An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a New York disposition where charges are adjourned for 6 to 12 months and then automatically dismissed if the defendant has no new arrests. ACDs are generally available for some first offenses, but sexual assault charges—particularly felonies—are rarely resolved by ACD. The prosecution’s willingness to offer an ACD depends heavily on the strength of the evidence and the specific allegations. Our firm evaluates every case to determine whether an ACD or other favorable resolution might be possible.

Can I get my criminal record sealed if I am convicted of a sexual assault in Westchester County?

New York offers conditional sealing under CPL § 160.59 for certain qualifying convictions, but most sexual assault convictions are not eligible for sealing because they fall under exceptions for violent felonies and sex offenses. If the case results in a non-conviction—such as an acquittal or a dismissal—expungement or sealing may be pursued. Our attorneys can explain what post-conviction relief may be available after the case is resolved. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What should I do if I believe I am under investigation for sexual assault in Westchester County?

If you suspect you are under investigation, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present, and do not discuss the matter with anyone other than your lawyer. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Early involvement of counsel can influence the direction of an investigation, including whether charges are filed. Our firm can communicate with investigators on your behalf and work to protect your rights before any arrest occurs.

How does a sexual assault case in Westchester County differ from other New York jurisdictions?

Westchester County prosecutes sexual assault cases vigorously, and the District Attorney’s Office has a specialized unit dedicated to sex crimes. This means that cases often receive intense scrutiny, with experienced prosecutors assigned from the start. Additionally, Westchester County Supreme Court has its own local practices regarding motion scheduling, discovery, and plea negotiations. Our familiarity with these local nuances allows us to prepare a defense that is tailored to the specific expectations of the court and the prosecuting team.

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For a full statutory breakdown of sex offense laws in New York, visit our comprehensive analysis.

Last reviewed: June 2026

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